Alcon launches two vitreoretinal surgical innovations at the 2017 FLOREtina Retina Meeting
Advanced Ultravit® Beveled High Speed Probe is the latest evolution in the micro-incision vitrectomy surgery
that offers surgical versatility, bevel tip precision and added control
Vektor® Articulating Illuminated Laser Probe aims to expand the possibilities for
reaching and treating the anterior periphery of the retina
Alcon’s educational program is centered on the future of 3D visualization in ophthalmology
with live surgeries and symposium featuring NGENUITY®
Florence, Italy, April 27, 2017 – Alcon, the global leader in eye care and a division of Novartis, is introducing the latest products in its surgical vitreoretinal portfolio during the second edition of the FLOREtina Retina Meeting: the Advanced Ultravit® Beveled High Speed Probe and Vektor® Articulating Illuminated Laser Probe. These new technologies are designed to help surgeons deliver a higher level of precision and efficiency during vitreoretinal surgery, especially as both will be available in all small gauges of 23Ga, 25+® Ga and 27+® Ga. They represent Alcon’s long-standing commitment to innovation in ophthalmology and dedication to restoring vision.
Alcon has expanded its micro-incision vitrectomy surgery (Alcon MIVS®) portfolio with the addition of the Advanced Ultravit® Beveled High Speed Probe that features dual pneumatic drive technology that powers up to 10,000 cuts per minute and an advanced bevel tip design2 to bring the cutting port into closer proximity to the retina. It offers surgical versatility to perform a variety of maneuvers to address multiple pathologies1 and added control with enhanced instrument stiffness in 25+® Ga and 27+® Ga through proprietary stiffening sleeves.3
Alcon is also introducing the Vektor® Articulating Illuminated Laser Probe for laser vitreoretinal surgeries to be used in conjunction with the Purepoint® Laser and Constellation® Vision System to better reach and treat the anterior periphery of the retina. It combines three functionalities in one device: laser photocoagulation therapy, built-in illumination and continuously adjustable articulation. With a slide-button design for smooth actioning, it enables unassisted scleral depression by the surgeon, allows insertion and extraction in straight-tip configuration to eliminate resistance on the trocar cannula wall and delivers tip articulation to help avoid the lens when reaching to the far side of the periphery.
“We are delighted to launch both of these devices at the FLOREtina Retina Meeting as this represents a great opportunity to focus on advances in vitreoretinal surgery following our 2016 launch of our NGENUITY® 3D Visualization System where we have had such positive feedback,” said Ian Bell, Regional President, Alcon EMEA. “We offer the widest spectrum of quality vitreoretinal products and tools available to assist surgeons in delivering the best treatment outcomes to patients. 2017 is Alcon’s 70th anniversary and we have valued the partnership of retinal surgeons for nearly four decades and look forward to continue collaborating to innovate and advance eye care.”
At FLOREtina, Alcon’s educational program will focus on the future presenting a series of 3D experiences featuring the complete platform for Digitally Assisted Vitreoretinal Surgery (DAVS) which includes the NGENUITY® 3D Visualization System introduced in 2016 and Constellation®. The platform is designed to enhance visualization of the back of the eye for improved surgeon experience combined with Constellation® and the complete Alcon vitreoretinal product portfolio. The program includes 3D Live Surgeries, a 3D symposium entitled ‘Advancing Vitreoretinal Surgery: 3D Visualization and Beyond’ and a complete 3D DAVS Experience Academy to offer a hands on practice to attendees.
About Vitreoretinal Surgery4
Vitreoretinal surgery is a sub-specialty of ophthalmology focused in diseases and surgery of the back of the eye including the retina and the vitreous body of the eye. The retina is a light-sensitive area that includes the macula, which is made up of light-sensitive cells that provide sharp, detailed vision. The vitreous body of the eye is a clear gel that fills the space between the retina and the lens. The retina, the macula, and the vitreous body can all be subject to various diseases and conditions that can lead to blindness or vision loss and may require the attention of a vitreoretinal surgeon.
About Alcon
Alcon is the global leader in eye care. As a division of Novartis, we offer the broadest portfolio of products to enhance sight and improve people’s lives. Our products touch the lives of more than 260 million people each year living with conditions like cataract, glaucoma, retinal diseases and refractive errors, and there are millions more who are waiting for solutions to meet their eye care needs. Our purpose is reimagining eye care, and we do this through innovative products, partnerships with eye care professionals and programs that enhance access to quality eye care. Learn more at www.alcon.com. Alcon is on Facebook. Like us at www.facebook.com/AlconEyeCare